The Thesis Statement Group Members: Topic: Definition of a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement is an argument or a hypothesis, the “main” point of your work; an unproved statement, especially one serving as a premise in a paper or project. The purpose of your project will be to present evidence in support of your thesis. Everything about your project will stem and evolve from your thesis statement.

1. Arguable.

2. Evolved from your research therefore you have evidence to support it.

3. Clear, focused, and specific.

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  Develop a tentative thesis statement early on to keep your work focused.
  
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  If you cannot explain your argument in three sentences or less, refine your thesis.
  
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  Keep your thesis in mind as you conduct your research.
  
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  Revise your thesis, if your research findings shed new light on your earlier questions.
  
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  If you cannot phrase your thesis statement in the form of a “why” question, refine your thesis statement.
  
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  Look at what others have written about a subject, and argue against them and/or show how your research supports what they are saying.
  
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  Do not force your evidence to support or prove your thesis.
  

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  Weak Thesis Statement: “This project is about Alice Paul and the women’s suffrage movement.” This thesis statement is weak. *It does not take a position or make an argument. It is too general and not specific.
  

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  Strong Thesis Statement: “By taking a non-violent and radical approach, Alice Paul with the National Women’s Party kept the women’s suffrage movement in the public eye, helping to pass of the 19th amendment.” *This example takes a position and provides an argument with which people can either agree or disagree.